Wales could go down to 'third-choice flyhalf'
REACTION: Wales might be forced to play their ‘third-choice flyhalf’ following Dan Biggar’s head knock during the side’s 29-25 win over Australia.
Biggar had a dream start as he produced a drop goal after just 37 seconds of play – the fastest ever such score in the history of the competition.
The flyhalf also added a conversion before he was forced to leave the field for a head injury assessment (HIA) after just 28 minutes of play.
Biggar never returned and Wales head coach Warren Gatland confirmed that the No.10 failed an HIA and was replaced by Rhys Patchell.
Wales already lost the services of first-choice flyhalf Gareth Anscombe, thus the idea of losing Biggar could be a major setback for the Grand Slam Champions’ remaining schedule.
Fortunately, Wales have a nine-day break until their third pool match against Fiji on October 9, which gives ample time to recover.
“Dan [Biggar] failed an HIA,” Gatland told the media, adding “I had a chat with him afterward.
“He’s disappointed he had to come off, but it is important we go through the (HIA) protocols.,”
Fullback Liam Williams is another injury concern for the coach.
Gatland revealed that the fullback rolled his ankle, but said that he is confident Williams will be okay.
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The Pool D showdown did not disappoint as Wales cruised into a 26-8 lead before Australia went within a point of drawing level – and were then finally broken by replacement Patchell’s late penalty.
Wales’ triumph keeps them on course for a potential last-eight clash against France or Argentina
It was Wales’ second win in succession against Australia but a first World Cup victory over the Wallabies since 1987.
“I would like to see them [Wales players] celebrate tonight,” Kiwi Gatland said.
“They deserve to celebrate – it was a tough game and a great win.
“Australia were really good in the second half, put us under a lot of pressure and had a lot of ball.
“And it became a typical Wales-Australia clash, going right down to the wire. To win that is very pleasing, and that means the pool is our own destiny.
“Our game-management has improved significantly. It was good in the autumn last year, and particularly in the Six Nations. We’ve learnt a lot from those experiences.
“Even though we were under a lot of pressure in that second half, I thought our composure and fitness were really good and we soaked up a lot of pressure.
@rugby365 & AAP
